Gutter Protection System

ABSTRACT

A gutter protector is provided. The gutter protector includes: an upper fastener configured to secure the gutter protector above a gutter rear wall; a lower fastener configured to secure the gutter protector to a top front edge; a non-rigid permeable member extended tautly and smoothly, once installed, between the upper fastener and the lower fastener, the gutter protector provided with openings to permit passage of water while substantially shedding debris; and a riser integrally formed with the upper fastener and configured to provide a rear rise to create a downward slope across the permeable member from the upper fastener to the lower fastener, having a float, to shed debris from the gutter yet allow water to pass through the permeable member. The gutter protector operates without an underlying support. The gutter protector has no raised edge on the gutter protector, thereby having no impediment to the flow of debris and water.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The technology described herein relates generally to gutters for roofs and other structures, and covers, screens, protection systems, guards, debris eliminators, screen guards, debris shields, and the like, to be mounted upon such gutters. More specifically, this technology relates to a gutter protection system configured to provide zero clogging of leafs, debris, and the like, and that utilizes no underlying structural support system and that utilizes no edges or areas in which debris can snag or restrict debris movement across its surface.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Rain gutters are well-known structures found along roof eaves for diverting rainwater runoff. Such gutters are open and are known to become clogged because of debris accumulation over time. Many devices have been developed to overcome these deficiencies; however, these devices have been found also to have various shortcomings.

Related utility patents known in the art include the following:

-   U.S. Pat. No. 2,209,741, issued to Sullivan et al. on Feb. 17, 1939,     discloses a roofing gutter and guard therefor. -   U.S. Pat. No. 3,741,398, issued to Abramson on Jun. 26, 1973,     discloses a roof gutter and protector. -   U.S. Pat. No. 4,644,704, issued to Pedgonay on Feb. 24, 1987,     discloses a rain gutter debris eliminator. -   U.S. Pat. No. 4,750,300, issued to Winger, Jr. on Jun. 14, 1988,     discloses a gutter screen guard. -   U.S. Pat. No. 4,841,686 issued to Rees on Jun. 27, 1989, discloses a     rain gutter assembly. -   U.S. Pat. No. 4,907,318, issued to Ealer on Mar. 13, 1990, discloses     a gutter screen. -   U.S. Pat. No. 4,959,932, issued to Pfeifer on Oct. 2, 1990,     discloses a rain gutter screen. -   U.S. Pat. No. 5,072,551, issued to Manoogian, Jr. on Dec. 17, 1991,     discloses a gutter guard. -   U.S. Pat. No. 5,095,666, issued to Williams, Jr. on Mar. 17, 1992,     discloses a device for protecting roof gutters. -   U.S. Pat. No. 5,109,640, issued to Creson on May 5, 1992, discloses     a screen for a rain gutter. -   U.S. Pat. No. 5,271,192, issued to Nothum, Sr. et al. on Dec. 21,     1993, discloses a rain gutter screen. -   U.S. Pat. No. 5,388,377, issued to Faulkner on Feb. 14, 1995,     discloses a gutter assembly for roofs. -   U.S. Pat. No. 5,406,754, issued to Cosby on Apr. 18, 1995, discloses     a drain gutter debris guard and method of making. -   U.S. Pat. No. 5,438,803, issued to Blizard, Jr. on Aug. 8, 1995,     discloses a rain gutter guard. -   U.S. Pat. No. 5,555,680, issued to Sweers on Sep. 17, 1996,     discloses a guard screen for a rain gutter having flanges for     gripping the front lip of a gutter. -   U.S. Pat. No. 5,619,825, issued to Lerony et al. on Apr. 15, 1997,     discloses a gutter screen. -   U.S. Pat. No. 5,813,173, issued to Way, Sr. on Sep. 29, 1998,     discloses a gutter protector. -   U.S. Pat. No. 5,842,311, issued to Morin on Dec. 1, 1998, discloses     a gutter screen of cover. -   U.S. Pat. No. 5,893,240, issued to Ealer, Sr. on Apr. 13, 1999,     discloses a gutter screen. -   U.S. Pat. No. 5,956,904, issued to Gentry on Sep. 28, 1999,     discloses a gutter debris shield. -   U.S. Pat. No. 6,016,31, issued to Lowrie, III on Jan. 25, 2000,     discloses rain gutter devices. -   U.S. Pat. No. 6,412,228, issued to Meckstroth on Jul. 2, 2002,     discloses a leaf and debris deflecting cover device for a rain     gutter. -   U.S. Pat. No. 6,463,700, issued to Davis on Oct. 15, 2002, discloses     a composite gutter guard. -   U.S. Pat. No. 6,951,077, issued to Higginbotham on Oct. 4, 2005,     discloses a non-clogging screen. -   U.S. Pat. No. 7,627,991, issued to Feldhaus on Dec. 8, 2009,     discloses a gutter debris cover -   U.S. Pat. No. 7,913,458, issued to Higginbotham, on Mar. 29, 2011,     discloses a self-cleaning gutter shield. -   U.S. Pat. No. 8,006,438, issued to Higginbotham on Aug. 30, 2011,     discloses a non-clogging screen.

Related non-patent literature known in the art includes the following:

-   Leafsout, online at http://www.leafsout.com/, discloses a gutter     guard system. -   SuperCleanGutterScreen, online at     http://www.supercleangutterscreen.com/, discloses a gutter guard     system. -   LeafBlaster, online at http://www.leafblaster.com/, discloses a     gutter guard system. -   Mastershield, online at     http://www.gutterhelmet.com/gutters/mastershield-gutter-protection.cfm,     discloses a gutter guard system. -   LeafFilter, online at http://www.leaffilter.com/, discloses a gutter     guard system. -   GutterGlove, online at http://www.gutterglove.com/, discloses a     gutter guard system. -   Diamond Back Gutter Covers, online at     http://www.diamondbackguttercovers.com/, discloses a gutter guard     system. -   Rhino Gutter Guard, online at http://www.rhinogutterguard.com/,     discloses a gutter guard system. -   Leaf Solution, online at http://www.leafsolution.com/, discloses a     gutter guard system.

The foregoing patent and other information reflect the state of the art of which the inventor is aware and are tendered with a view toward discharging the inventor's acknowledged duty of candor in disclosing information that may be pertinent to the patentability of the technology described herein. It is respectfully stipulated, however, that the foregoing patent and other information do not teach or render obvious, singly or when considered in combination, the inventor's claimed invention.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In various exemplary embodiments, the technology described herein provides a gutter protection system configured to provide zero clogging of leafs, debris, and the like, and that utilizes no underlying structural support system and that utilizes no edges or areas in which debris can snag or restrict debris movement across its surface. There are no raised edges that will catch debris moving in the direction of the flow of water.

In one exemplary embodiment, the technology described herein provides a gutter protector configured to be secured on top of a rain gutter. The gutter protector includes: an upper fastener configured to secure the gutter protector above a rear wall of the rain gutter; a lower fastener configured to secure the gutter protector to a top of a front wall of the rain gutter; a non-rigid permeable member extended tautly and smoothly, once installed, between the upper fastener and the lower fastener, the gutter protector configured with a plurality of openings to permit the passage of water while substantially shedding organic debris, debris, and solid material; and a riser integrally formed with the upper fastener and configured to provide a downward slope across the permeable member from the upper fastener to the lower fastener to shed organic debris and solid material from the rain gutter yet allow water to pass through the permeable member into the gutter. The gutter protector is configured to operate without an underlying support structure. The gutter protector is configured with no raised edge on an upper surface of the gutter protector thereby having no impediment to the flow of debris and water that would create clogs. The upper fastener can be mounted higher, if desired, to increase the slope. The lower fastener can float to accommodate the increase in slope or angle of the permeable member.

The gutter protector also can include a flange integrally formed with the lower fastener and configured to provide a drip edge angled outwardly and away from an outside edge of the front wall of the gutter.

In at least one embodiment, the non-rigid permeable member is a micro stainless steel fabric. In at least one embodiment, the non-rigid permeable member is a mesh. The non-rigid permeable member can be selected based on application.

The gutter protector further can include a supplemental rear fastener clip or bracket configured to provide additional support to the upper fastener, as required by special installation circumstances, as it is attached to fascia board, rafter tail, or the like behind the rear wall of the rain gutter.

In at least one embodiment, the upper fastener is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member by an adhesive and at least one first crimp, and the lower fastener is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member by an adhesive and at least one second crimp. Alternatively, in at least one embodiment, the upper fastener is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member without adhesive or crimping, or with only one of adhesive or crimping, and the lower fastener is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member without adhesive or crimping, or with only one of adhesive or crimping.

In at least one embodiment, the upper fastener and the lower fastener are aluminum.

In at least one embodiment, the upper fastener and the lower fastener are polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

The gutter protector also can include a lower fastener lower lateral and a lower fastener upper lateral folded back over the lower lateral. The lower fastener lower lateral and the lower fastener upper lateral are integrally formed with the lower fastener. The lower fastener lower lateral and the lower fastener upper lateral are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member.

The gutter protector further can include a lower fastener concave portion integrally formed within the lower fastener and a clip configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member between the lower fastener concave portion and the clip of the lower fastener.

The gutter protector also can include an upper fastener lower lateral and an upper fastener upper lateral folded back over the lower lateral. The upper fastener lower lateral and the upper fastener upper lateral are integrally formed with the upper fastener. The upper fastener lower lateral and the upper fastener upper lateral are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member.

The gutter protector further can include an upper fastener left vertical and an upper fastener right vertical folded back downwardly adjacent the lower lateral. The upper fastener left vertical and the upper fastener right vertical are integrally formed with the upper fastener. The upper fastener left vertical and the upper fastener right vertical are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member.

The gutter protector also can include an upper fastener left vertical and an upper fastener right vertical folded back upwardly adjacent the lower lateral. The upper fastener left vertical and the upper fastener right vertical are integrally formed with the upper fastener. The upper fastener left vertical and the upper fastener right vertical are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member.

The gutter protector further can include an upper fastener upper lateral and an upper fastener lower lateral folded back under the upper fastener upper lateral. The upper fastener lower lateral and the upper fastener upper lateral are integrally formed with the upper fastener. The upper fastener lower lateral and the upper fastener upper lateral are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member.

The gutter protector also can include an upper fastener upper lateral and an upper fastener lower lateral below and parallel to the upper fastener upper lateral. The upper fastener lower lateral and the upper fastener upper lateral are integrally formed with the upper fastener. The upper fastener lower lateral and the upper fastener upper lateral are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member.

The gutter protector further can include an upper fastener concave portion integrally formed within the upper fastener and a clip configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member between the upper fastener concave portion and the clip of the upper fastener.

The gutter protector also can include a cable clip configured to hold a heat cable within the gutter and below the gutter protector.

In at least one other exemplary embodiment, a gutter protection system is provided. The gutter protection system includes: a rain gutter; an upper fastener configured to secure the gutter protector above a rear wall of the rain gutter; a lower fastener configured to secure the gutter protector to a top of a front wall of the rain gutter; a non-rigid permeable member extended tautly and smoothly, once installed, between the upper fastener and the lower fastener, the gutter protector configured with a plurality of openings to permit the passage of water while substantially shedding organic debris, debris, and solid material; and a riser integrally formed with the upper fastener and configured to provide a downward slope across the permeable member from the upper fastener to the lower fastener to shed organic debris and solid material from the rain gutter yet allow water to pass through the permeable member into the gutter. The gutter protector is configured to operate without an underlying support structure. The gutter protector is configured with no raised edge on an upper surface of the gutter protector thereby having no impediment to the flow of debris and water in which debris can snag or restrict debris movement across its surface. There are no raised edges that will catch debris moving in the direction of the flow of water.

The gutter protection system also can include a flange integrally formed with the lower fastener and configured to provide a drip edge angled outwardly and away from an outside edge of the front wall of the gutter.

The gutter protection system further can include an option cable clip or multiple clips configured to hold a heat cable within the gutter and below the gutter protector.

Advantageously, the technology described herein provides a permeable member (mesh, fabric, screen, and so forth) that can be selected based on specific requirements, size of debris to be shed, and water flow requirements. Furthermore, the permeable member can include specialized sections.

Advantageously, the technology described herein provides a gutter protector designed to eliminate any edges, ridges, creases, crimps, ripples, valleys, and other debris-catching obstructions known in existing gutter guard systems. These obstructions are in the direction of water flow.

Advantageously, the technology described herein provides a permeable member that is easy to install, having a top support that is mechanically fastened to fascia by flipping the permeable member up, over, and out of the way, and having a bottom support that is mechanically fastened to a front top edge of the gutter.

Advantageously, the technology described herein provides a permeable member having an approximate 10 degrees slope from the riser of the upper fastener. The slope is adjustable.

Advantageously, the technology described herein provides a heat cable clip that can be placed in a gutter and under a gutter protector to provide a clip or a tray for a heat cable to reduce and eliminate icicles, melt ice buildup and the like.

Advantageously, the technology described herein provides a modular solution, having, for example, four or five-foot sections, or the like, for ease of installation.

Advantageously, the technology described herein provides a gutter protector having a large area for water penetration, having a significant portion of the surface area that is permeable to water.

Advantageously, the technology described herein provides a gutter protector that has a drip edge integrally formed.

Advantageously, the technology described herein provides a gutter protector made of aluminum and/or stainless steel, in at least one embodiment, to provide strength and durability.

Advantageously, the technology described herein provides a gutter protector that utilizes no underlying structural support system

There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more important features of the technology in order that the detailed description thereof that follows may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are additional features of the technology that will be described hereinafter and which will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto. In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the technology in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The technology described herein is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception, upon which this disclosure is based, may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present invention. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the technology described herein.

Further objects and advantages of the technology described herein will be apparent from the following detailed description of a presently preferred embodiment which is illustrated schematically in the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The technology described herein is illustrated with reference to the various drawings, in which like reference numbers denote like device components and/or method steps, respectively, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a gutter protection system, illustrating, in particular a permeable member coupled to an upper fastener and a lower fastener and secured tautly, once installed, such that no raised edge exists to impede debris and clog, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 2 is a side cross-section view of the gutter protection system depicted in FIG. 1, illustrating, in particular, the relationship of the gutter protection system to the gutter, fascia board, and shingles, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a lower fastener of the gutter protection system to couple with the permeable member, illustrating, in particular, a flange and a receiving area for the permeable member, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 3B is a side view of a lower fastener of the gutter protection system to couple with the permeable member, illustrating, in particular, a flange, and a receiving area for the permeable member wherein a clip secures the permeable member in the receiving area, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 3C is a side view of a lower fastener of the gutter protection system to couple with the permeable member, illustrating, in particular, a flange and a receiving area for the permeable member, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of up upper fastener of the gutter protection system to couple with the permeable member, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of up upper fastener of the gutter protection system to couple with the permeable member, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 4C is a perspective view of up upper fastener of the gutter protection system to couple with the permeable member, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 4D is a perspective view of up upper fastener of the gutter protection system to couple with the permeable member, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 4E is a perspective view of up upper fastener of the gutter protection system to couple with the permeable member, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 4F is a perspective view of up upper fastener of the gutter protection system to couple with the permeable member, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 4G is a perspective view of up upper fastener of the gutter protection system to couple with the permeable member, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 4H is a perspective view of up upper fastener of the gutter protection system to couple with the permeable member, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 5 is a side cross-section view of the gutter protection system depicted in FIG. 1, illustrating, in particular the lower fastener extended slightly over the gutter, and having a float, when the upper fastener is raised to increase the slop of the permeable member;

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a gutter protection system, illustrating, in particular a permeable member coupled to an upper fastener and a lower fastener and secured tautly, once installed, such that no raised edge exists to impede debris and clog, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 7 is a side cross-section view of the gutter protection system depicted in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a close up view of the upper bracket of the gutter protection system depicted in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a close up view of the lower bracket of the gutter protection system depicted in FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a supplemental mounting bracket, half height, for the gutter protection system, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a supplemental mounting bracket, full height, for the gutter protection system, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of a supplemental mounting bracket for the gutter protection system, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a cable clip to receive a heat cable, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein; and

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a cable clip to receive a heat cable, illustrating, in particular, placement of the cable clip within the gutter and under the gutter protection system, according to an embodiment of the technology described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Before describing the disclosed embodiments of this technology in detail, it is to be understood that the technology is not limited in its application to the details of the particular arrangement shown here since the technology described is capable of other embodiments. Also, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.

In various exemplary embodiments, the technology described herein provides a gutter protection system 10 configured to provide zero clogging of leafs, debris, and the like. The gutter protection system 10 utilizes no underlying structural support system. The gutter protection system 10 utilizes no edges or areas in which debris can snag or restrict debris movement across its surface. There are no raised edges that will catch debris moving in the direction of the flow of water.

Referring now to the Figures, a gutter protector 10 configured for zero clogging is shown. The gutter protector 10 is configured to be secured on top of a rain gutter or above the gutter fastened to the fascia board, rafter tail, or the like, of a building. The gutter protector 10 is configured to work with a K-style, Ogee, or conventional gutters as an add-on or retrofit solution. The gutter protector 10 also is configured to be prefabricated and/or preassembled with a gutter at a point of manufacture for later installation as a complete gutter system. The gutter protector 10 is configured to operate without an underlying support structure. The gutter protector 10 is configured with no raised edge on an upper surface of the gutter protector 10 thereby having no impediment to the flow of debris and water that would create clogs.

A rain gutter typically has a rear wall 22, front wall 18, and a base, or trough 24. Additionally the front wall 18 can further include upper lip 26 and flange 32. Depending on the gutter, the upper lip 26 can be flat or rounded. As is well known in the art, the various components used to create the underlying gutter can vary. However, the gutter protector 10 disclosed herein is configured to protect gutters in many variations from debris entering, yet allow water to enter.

As depicted in FIG. 2, the gutter protector 10 typically is installed on a building up against a fascia board 30. The shingles 20 on the building overhang the gutter and gutter protector 10 enough to ensure that no debris and/or water flow backwardly toward the building or into the building.

The gutter protector 10 includes an upper fastener 12. The upper fastener 12 is configured to secure the gutter protector 10 above a rear wall 22 of the rain gutter to the fascia board 30. Various embodiments of the upper fastener 12 are included in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4F, and 4G.

In at least one embodiment, the upper fastener 12 is aluminum. In at least one embodiment, the upper fastener 12 is polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

The gutter protector 10 includes a lower fastener 16. The lower fastener 16 is configured to secure the gutter protector 10 to a top of a front wall 18 of the rain gutter. Various embodiments of the lower fastener 16 are included in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C.

In at least one embodiment, the lower fastener 16 is aluminum. In at least one embodiment, the lower fastener 16 is polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

The gutter protector 10 includes a non-rigid permeable member 14. The non-rigid permeable member 14 is extended tautly and smoothly, once installed, between the upper fastener 12 and the lower fastener 16. The non-rigid permeable member 14, in various embodiments, includes fabric, mesh, screen, and micro stainless steel fabric. The non-rigid permeable member 14, in various embodiments, is metal. The non-rigid permeable member 14, in various embodiments, is plastic. The non-rigid permeable member 14, in various embodiments, is fabric.

The gutter protector 10 configured with a plurality of openings to permit the passage of water while substantially shedding organic debris, debris, and solid material. See for example, mesh 15 close-up of the permeable member in FIG. 1. Visually the gutter protector 10 may appear to be a solid surface, but the gutter protector 10 includes openings such that the gutter protector 10 is permeable. By way of example, the gutter protector 10 is a micro stainless steel mesh in one embodiment. Also by way of example, one embodiment includes a weave pattern of a certain number of longitudinal cross pieces for a certain number of latitudinal cross pieces. Weave patterns can be selected and used in alternative embodiments dependent on user selection and need in a particular installation.

In an effort to prevent oil leaching off of asphalt shingles and building up on the gutter protector 10, a weave pattern is selected to be small enough to disallow particles from entering the gutter, yet large enough to prevent the buildup of oils and residues on the gutter protector 10. This facilitates fast moving water through the permeable surface.

The gutter protector 10 weave pattern can also factor in the flushing vortex concept. Such vortexes actually serve to “pull” or “suck” inwardly through the gutter protector 10 and into the gutter. This provides a self-cleaning effect and further prevents buildup and/or residue on the gutter protector 10. The weave can be varied to increase or decrease the vortex flushing effect.

The gutter protector 10 has an “A” side and a “B” side in at least one embodiment. The gutter protector 10 in this embodiment allows better permeation of water in one direction, such as A-to-B, but not the other, B-to-A.

The gutter protector 10 includes a riser, such as 40 in 4A, 46 in 4B, and so forth, integrally formed with the upper fastener 12. The riser is configured to provide a downward slope across the permeable member 14 from the upper fastener 12 to the lower fastener 16 to shed organic debris and solid material from the rain gutter yet allow water to pass through the permeable member 14 into the gutter.

In at least one embodiment gutter protector 10 includes a flange 34 in FIG. 3A, 35 if FIG. 3B, 41 if FIG. 3C. The flange 34, 35, 41 is integrally formed with the lower fastener 16. The flange 34, 35 is configured to provide a drip edge angled outwardly and away from an outside edge of the front wall 18 of the gutter. As such, the flange 34, 35, 41 is configured to prevent dirty streaks, or “tiger striping” on rain gutters. Tiger stripes are the result of debris, pollutants, on the like, continuously rolling over the lip of the gutter and streaming down the face of the gutter. Use of flange 34, 35, 41 minimizes this streaking, or tiger striping from occurring.

The gutter protector further can include a supplemental rear fastener clip 66, 76, 86. The supplemental rear fastener clip 66, 76, 86 is configured to provide support for various installation circumstances to the upper fastener 12 as it is attached to or above the rear wall 22 of the rain gutter. By way of example, an installation may be on a building having only rafter tails onto which the additional fastener clip 66, 76, 86 is utilized. In various embodiments, the supplemental rear fastener clip 66, 76, 86 is depicted specifically in FIGS. 10, 11, and 12 respectively.

In reference to FIG. 10, a supplemental rear fastener clip 66 is shown. Base 68 includes aperture 70, through which a screw, or the like, can secure the supplemental rear fastener clip 66 to or above the rear wall 22 of the rain gutter. The supplemental rear fastener clip 66 is crimped or bent at point 72 to transition into upper plate 74. Point 72 causes the upper plate 74 to bend outwardly from the base 68, thereby providing a recess into which the upper fastener 12 can be secured.

In reference to FIG. 11, a supplemental rear fastener clip 76 is shown. Base 78 includes aperture 80, through which a screw, or the like, can secure the supplemental rear fastener clip 66 to or above the rear wall 22 of the rain gutter. The supplemental rear fastener clip 76 at point 82 to transition into upper plate 84. Point 82 causes the upper plate 84 to bend outwardly from the base 78, thereby providing a recess into which the upper fastener 12 can be secured.

In reference to FIG. 12, a supplemental rear fastener clip 86 is shown. Base 88 includes aperture 92, through which a screw, or the like, can secure the supplemental rear fastener clip 86 to or above the rear wall 22 of the rain gutter. The supplemental rear fastener clip 86 includes plate 90, folded backwardly adjacent to base 88 to provide a recess into which the upper fastener 12 can be secured.

In at least one embodiment, the upper fastener 12 is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member 14 by an adhesive and at least one first crimp. Alternatively, the upper fastener 12 is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member 14 by an adhesive. Alternatively, the upper fastener 12 is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member 14 by at least one first crimp. Alternatively, the upper fastener 12 is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member 14 without adhesive or crimping.

In at least one embodiment, the lower fastener 16 is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member 14 by an adhesive and at least one second crimp. Alternatively, the lower fastener 16 is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member 14 by an adhesive. Alternatively, the lower fastener 16 is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member 14 by at least one second crimp. Alternatively, the lower fastener 16 is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member 14 without adhesive or crimping.

As depicted specifically in FIG. 3A, the gutter protector 10 also can include a lower fastener lower lateral 36 and a lower fastener upper lateral 38 folded back over the lower lateral 36. The lower fastener lower lateral 36 and the lower fastener upper lateral 38 are integrally formed with the lower fastener 16. The lower fastener lower lateral 36 and the lower fastener upper lateral 38 are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member 14 in between.

As depicted specifically in FIG. 3B, the gutter protector 10 further can include a lower fastener concave portion 37 integrally formed within the lower fastener 16 and a clip 39 configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member 14 between the lower fastener concave portion 37 and the clip 39 of the lower fastener 16. The clip 39 runs the length of the gutter protector 10 in at least one embodiment. As the clip 30 is placed within the lower fastener concave portion 37, it can be pushed in or hammered in, for example, to secure the permeable member 14.

As depicted in FIG. 3C, the gutter protector 10 also can include a lower fastener lower lateral 43 and a lower fastener upper lateral 45 uncoupled from the lower lateral 36 until install with the permeable member, such as by crimping, for example, and not of limitation. The lower fastener lower lateral 43 and the lower fastener upper lateral 45 are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member 14 in between such as by crimping, for example.

As depicted specifically in FIG. 4A, the gutter protector 10 also can include riser 40, an upper fastener lower lateral 42, and an upper fastener upper lateral 44 folded back over the lower lateral 42. The upper fastener lower lateral 42 and the upper fastener upper lateral 44 are integrally formed with the upper fastener 12. The upper fastener lower lateral 42 and the upper fastener upper lateral 44 are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member 14. In FIG. 4A, the upper fastener upper lateral 44 is folded back over the lower lateral 42 approximately fifty percent.

As depicted specifically in FIG. 4B, the gutter protector 10 also can include riser 46, an upper fastener lower lateral 48, and an upper fastener upper lateral 50 folded back over the lower lateral 48. The upper fastener lower lateral 48 and the upper fastener upper lateral 50 are integrally formed with the upper fastener 12. The upper fastener lower lateral 48 and the upper fastener upper lateral 50 are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member 14. In FIG. 4B, the upper fastener upper lateral 50 is folded back over the lower lateral 48 approximately one hundred percent.

As depicted specifically in FIG. 4C, the gutter protector 10 further can include an upper fastener left vertical 52 and an upper fastener right vertical 53 folded back downwardly adjacent the lower lateral. The upper fastener left vertical 52 and the upper fastener right vertical 54 are integrally formed with the upper fastener 12. The upper fastener left vertical 52 and the upper fastener right vertical 54 are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member 14.

As depicted specifically in FIG. 4D, the gutter protector 10 also can include an upper fastener left vertical 56 and an upper fastener right vertical 58 folded back upwardly adjacent the upper fastener left vertical 56. The upper fastener left vertical 56 and the upper fastener right vertical 58 are integrally formed with the upper fastener 12. The upper fastener left vertical 56 and the upper fastener right vertical 58 are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member 14.

As depicted specifically in FIG. 4E, the gutter protector 10 further can include riser 60, an upper fastener upper lateral 62, and an upper fastener lower lateral 64 folded back under the upper fastener upper lateral 62. The upper fastener lower lateral 64 and the upper fastener upper lateral 62 are integrally formed with the upper fastener 12. The upper fastener lower lateral 64 and the upper fastener upper lateral 64 are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member 14.

As depicted specifically in FIG. 4F, the gutter protector 10 also can include riser 61, an upper fastener upper lateral 65, and an upper fastener lower lateral 63 below and parallel to the upper fastener upper lateral. The upper fastener lower lateral 63 and the upper fastener upper lateral 65 are integrally formed with the upper fastener 12. The upper fastener lower lateral 61 and the upper fastener upper lateral 65 are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member 14.

As depicted specifically in FIG. 4G, the gutter protector 10 further can include riser 67, an upper fastener concave portion 71 integrally formed within lateral 69 of the upper fastener 12, and a clip 73 configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member 14 between the upper fastener concave portion 71 and the clip 73 of the upper fastener. The clip 73 runs the length of the gutter protector 10 in at least one embodiment. As the clip 73 is placed within the upper fastener concave portion 71, it can be pushed in or hammered in, for example, to secure the permeable member 14.

As depicted specifically in FIG. 4H, the gutter protector 10 also can include riser 75, an upper fastener upper lateral 79, and an upper fastener lower lateral 77 below and parallel to the upper fastener upper lateral. The upper fastener lower lateral 77 is integrally formed with riser 75. The upper fastener lower lateral 77 and the upper fastener upper lateral 79 are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member 14, such as by crimping for example, but not of limitation.

As depicted specifically in FIG. 5, the gutter protector 10 includes a “float” such that, dependent upon the gutter or other factors in installation, the upper fastener 12 and lower fastener 16 are varied slightly in location for mounting. As the upper fastener 12 is mounted above the rear gutter wall 22, in the direction of movement noted by 23, the slope of the permeable member is increased. As such the lower fastener is moved inwardly toward the gutter. The lower fastener 16 can move in the direction of 25 dependent on the slope desired for the permeable member 14.

As depicted specifically in FIGS. 13 and 14, the gutter protector 10 also can include a cable clip 94. The cable clip 94 is configured to hold a heat cable within the gutter and below the gutter protector 10. The heat cable is used to provide enough heat to the gutter protector 10 to melt ice and to prevent the buildup of ice and icicles in or on the gutters, lower shingles, and gutter protector 10. The cable clip 94 includes first vertical 96, first lateral 98, second vertical 100, second lateral 102, and third vertical 104.

In at least one other exemplary embodiment, a gutter protection system is provided. The gutter protection system includes: a rain gutter; an upper fastener configured to secure the gutter protector above a rear wall of the rain gutter; a lower fastener configured to secure the gutter protector to a top of a front wall of the rain gutter; a non-rigid permeable member extended tautly and smoothly, once installed, between the upper fastener and the lower fastener, the gutter protector configured with a plurality of openings to permit the passage of water while substantially shedding organic debris, debris, and solid material; and a riser integrally formed with the upper fastener and configured to provide a rear rise to create a downward slope across the permeable member from the upper fastener to the lower fastener to shed organic debris and solid material from the rain gutter yet allow water to pass through the permeable member into the gutter. The gutter protector is configured to operate without an underlying support structure. The gutter protector is configured with no raised edge on an upper surface of the gutter protector thereby having no impediment to the flow of debris and water that would create clogs

The gutter protection system of this embodiment also can include a flange integrally formed with the lower fastener and configured to provide a drip edge angled outwardly and away from an outside edge of the front wall of the gutter.

The gutter protection system further can include a cable clip configured to hold a heat cable within the gutter and below the gutter protector.

In at least two embodiments, in use the gutter protection system can be installed directly and indirectly, such as with supplemental clips and fasteners.

For direct attachment, the gutter protection system 10 can be installed as follows:

-   -   Starting at an end of the pre-existing, pre-installed gutter         without a corner, take a four foot length, for example, gutter         protector 10 and position the upper fastener 12 directly on the         top edge of the gutter (at the top of 22). Insure that the edge         (left edge if starting from the left end of a gutter) is in line         with the end of the gutter. Fasten this piece with a         self-tapping screw, for example, in the center of the fastener         12 into the fascia board 30 while making sure the entire bottom         edge of the gutter protector 10 upper fastener 12 is in line         with the top rear edge (top of 22) of the gutter. Fasten on the         right and the left approximately two inches from the ends of the         gutter protector 10. Add additional screws between the center         screw and ends screws, so that there are five fastening points,         for example only, in total on this section of the gutter         protector.     -   Pull the gutter protector 10 forward to tighten the non-rigid         permeable member 14, while making sure that edge of the gutter         protector 10 is in line with the end of the gutter, and fasten         about six inches from the end through the lower fastener 16 into         the gutter at the upper portion of front wall 18. Fasten again         at the center and other end of this length of the gutter         protector.     -   Repeat the process above after first butting the next four foot         length of gutter protector 10 tightly against the previous         section.

For indirect attachment, such as for example, when there is no fascia board and rafter tails are used as mount points, the gutter protection system 10 can be installed, for example, utilizing supplemental rear fastener clips, one or more of 66, 76, 86, or a channel in similar form. Each of the supplemental rear fastener clips, one or more of 66, 76, 86, are mounted above the top edge of the rear gutter wall 22. The upper fastener 12 can be placed just behind upper plate 74 in 66, or just behind upper plate 84 in 76, or just behind 90 in 86.

As the gutter protection system is installed on an existing gutter, supplemental end caps can be created on the job by an installation technician. The supplemental end caps are configured to close the open, generally pie-shaped areas created as the gutter protector 10 is placed above a gutter and above the existing end caps. The supplemental end caps are configured to prevent debris and critters from entering the gutter.

Additionally, as the gutter protection system is installed on an existing gutter, special consideration and installation steps are taken at the inside and outside corners. Particularly on an inside corner, an area receiving a much higher quantity of runoff from the roof valley, the gutter protector 10 placement is made to be precise. In this inside corner, two adjoining section of gutter protector 10 are cut at 45 degree angles to be securely coupled and butted together. Although the quantity of water runoff is likely less at an outside corner, the installation practice is similar to that of an inside corner. Two adjoining section of gutter protector 10 are cut at 45 degree angles to be securely coupled and butted together. One installation method for either of both of the inside or outside corners is to use a large weave or mesh for the gutter protector 10 in that area to accommodate the higher capacity of water flow, and help prevent overshoot or overflow of water.

Additionally, as the gutter protection system is installed on an existing gutter, special consideration and installation steps are taken in areas where an upper downspout, such as from the roof of an upper story, drains to a lower roof into another gutter. This area of gutter on the lower roof is accommodating a higher capacity of water since it is receiving water from at least two roof sections. As such, an area where an upper downspout feeds to a lower gutter, the gutter protector 10 in that section can be a larger weave or mesh for the gutter protector 10 in that area to accommodate the higher capacity of water flow, and help prevent overshoot or overflow of water.

Although this technology has been illustrated and described herein with reference to preferred embodiments and specific examples thereof, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that other embodiments and examples can perform similar functions and/or achieve like results. All such equivalent embodiments and examples are within the spirit and scope of the invention and are intended to be covered by the following claims. 

1. A gutter protector configured to be secured on top of a rain gutter, the gutter protector comprising: an upper fastener adapted to secure the gutter protector above a rear wall of the rain gutter to a fascia board and under shingles; a lower fastener adapted to secure the gutter protector to a top of a front wall of the rain gutter; a non-rigid permeable member extended tautly and smoothly, once installed, between the upper fastener and the lower fastener, the gutter protector configured with a plurality of openings to permit the passage of water while substantially shedding organic debris, debris, and solid material; and a riser integrally formed with the upper fastener and adapted to provide a vertical height above the rear wall of the gutter and to provide a downward slope across the permeable member from the upper fastener to the lower fastener to shed organic debris and solid material from the rain gutter yet allowing water to pass through the permeable member into the gutter; wherein the gutter protector is configured to operate without an underlying support structure under the non-rigid permeable member of the gutter protector and between the upper fastener and the lower fastener; and wherein the gutter protector is configured with no raised edge, in the direction of water flow, on an upper surface of the gutter protector thereby having no impediment to the flow of debris and water across a top surface area to eliminate any possibility of backup or debris.
 2. The gutter protector of claim 1, further comprising: a flange integrally formed with the lower fastener and configured to provide a drip edge angled outwardly and away from an outside edge of the front wall of the gutter.
 3. The gutter protector of claim 1, wherein the non-rigid permeable member comprises a micro stainless steel fabric.
 4. The gutter protector of claim 1, wherein the non-rigid permeable member comprises a mesh.
 5. The gutter protector of claim 1, further comprising: a supplemental rear fastener clip configured to provide support for special construction circumstances to the upper fastener as it is attached to or above the rear wall of the rain gutter.
 6. The gutter protector of claim 1, wherein the upper fastener is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member by an adhesive; wherein the lower fastener is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member by an adhesive.
 7. The gutter protector of claim 1, wherein the upper fastener is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member by a first crimp; and wherein the lower fastener is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member by a second crimp.
 8. The gutter protector of claim 1, wherein the upper fastener is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member without adhesive and without a crimp; wherein the lower fastener is coupled to the non-rigid permeable member without adhesive and without a second crimp.
 9. The gutter protector of claim 1, wherein the upper fastener and the lower fastener are comprised of aluminum.
 10. The gutter protector of claim 1, wherein the upper fastener and the lower fastener are comprised of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
 11. The gutter protector of claim 1, further comprising: a lower fastener lower lateral; and a lower fastener upper lateral folded back over the lower lateral; wherein the lower fastener lower lateral and the lower fastener upper lateral are integrally formed with the lower fastener; and wherein the lower fastener lower lateral and the lower fastener upper lateral are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member.
 12. The gutter protector of claim 1, further comprising: a lower fastener concave portion integrally formed within the lower fastener; a clip configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member between the lower fastener concave portion and the clip of the lower fastener.
 13. The gutter protector of claim 1, further comprising: a lower fastener lower lateral; and a lower fastener upper lateral uncoupled from the lower lateral until install with the non-rigid permeable member; wherein the lower fastener lower lateral and the lower fastener upper lateral are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member.
 14. The gutter protector of claim 1, further comprising: an upper fastener lower lateral; and an upper fastener upper lateral folded back over the lower lateral; wherein the upper fastener lower lateral and the upper fastener upper lateral are integrally formed with the upper fastener; and wherein the upper fastener lower lateral and the upper fastener upper lateral are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member.
 15. The gutter protector of claim 1, further comprising: an upper fastener left vertical; and an upper fastener right vertical folded back downwardly adjacent the lower lateral; wherein the upper fastener left vertical and the upper fastener right vertical are integrally formed with the upper fastener; and wherein the upper fastener left vertical and the upper fastener right vertical are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member.
 16. The gutter protector of claim 1, further comprising: an upper fastener left vertical; and an upper fastener right vertical folded back upwardly adjacent the lower lateral; wherein the upper fastener left vertical and the upper fastener right vertical are integrally formed with the upper fastener; and wherein the upper fastener left vertical and the upper fastener right vertical are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member.
 17. The gutter protector of claim 1, further comprising: an upper fastener upper lateral; and an upper fastener lower lateral folded back under the upper fastener upper lateral; wherein the upper fastener lower lateral and the upper fastener upper lateral are integrally formed with the upper fastener; and wherein the upper fastener lower lateral and the upper fastener upper lateral are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member.
 18. The gutter protector of claim 1, further comprising: an upper fastener upper lateral; and an upper fastener lower lateral below and parallel to the upper fastener upper lateral; wherein the upper fastener lower lateral and the upper fastener upper lateral are integrally formed with the upper fastener; and wherein the upper fastener lower lateral and the upper fastener upper lateral are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member.
 19. The gutter protector of claim 1, further comprising: an upper fastener concave portion integrally formed within the upper fastener; a clip configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member between the upper fastener concave portion and the clip of the upper fastener.
 20. The gutter protector of claim 1, further comprising: an upper fastener upper lateral; and an upper fastener lower lateral below and parallel to the upper fastener upper lateral, uncoupled from the lower lateral until install with the non-rigid permeable member; wherein the upper fastener lower lateral and the upper fastener upper lateral are configured to secure the non-rigid permeable member.
 21. The gutter protector of claim 1, further comprising: a cable clip configured to hold a heat cable within the gutter and below the gutter protector.
 22. A gutter protection system comprising: a rain gutter; an upper fastener adapted to secure the gutter protector above a rear wall of the rain gutter to a fascia board and under shingles; a lower fastener adapted to secure the gutter protector to a top of a front wall of the rain gutter; a non-rigid permeable member extended tautly and smoothly, once installed, between the upper fastener and the lower fastener, the gutter protector configured with a plurality of openings to permit the passage of water while substantially shedding organic debris, debris, and solid material; and a riser integrally formed with the upper fastener and adapted to provide a vertical height above the rear wall of the gutter and to provide a downward slope across the permeable member from the upper fastener to the lower fastener to shed organic debris and solid material from the rain gutter yet allowing water to pass through the permeable member into the gutter; wherein the gutter protector is configured to operate without an underlying support structure under the non-rigid permeable member of the gutter protector and between the upper fastener and the lower fastener; and wherein the gutter protector is configured with no raised edge, in the direction of water flow, on an upper surface of the gutter protector thereby having no impediment to the flow of debris and water that would create clogs.
 23. The gutter protection system of claim 22, further comprising: a flange integrally formed with the lower fastener and configured to provide a drip edge angled outwardly and away from an outside edge of the front wall of the gutter.
 24. The gutter protection system of claim 22, further comprising: a cable clip configured to hold a heat cable within the gutter and below the gutter protector. 